Aucuba Japonica Variegata (Spotted Laurel)
Common Name: Spotted laurel
Genus: Aucuba
Species: japonica
Cultivar: 'Crotonifolia'
Skill Level: Beginner
Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade, Shade
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Clay/heavy, Acidic, Chalky/alkaline, Moist
Height: 300cm
Spread: 300cm
Time to plant seeds: September to November
Time to take cuttings: April to August
Flowering period: April to May
A versatile evergreen shrub for almost anywhere in the garden. Slow-growing, it will only reach 1.8m (6ft) after ten years if left unpruned. Like all aucuba varieties, 'Crotonifolia' will grow in shade - although its gold-blotched and finely-speckled leaves colour best in full sun. It thrives in most soils, including dry ground near hedges and trees. Shrubs may be strictly pruned as hedges, left to grow unchecked, or lightly trimmed to shape once annually, always using secateurs to avoid cutting the large leaves. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it ithe Award of Garden Merit (AGM). .jpg)
